BREAKING NEWS: Mark Pope Left Speechless and Sad After Receiving a Shocking Message from Star Player Otega Oweh as He Declares for the 2025 NBA Draft
In a stunning development that has taken the Kentucky Wildcats program by surprise, star guard Otega Oweh has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, delivering the news in a private message to head coach Mark Pope. The announcement has left Pope, just settling into his first full year leading the Wildcats, both speechless and emotional over the unexpected exit of one of his most promising players.
Oweh, a 6-foot-4 athletic guard from Newark, New Jersey, transferred to Kentucky from Oklahoma in 2024, quickly emerging as a cornerstone of Pope’s new-look roster. Known for his tenacity, explosive scoring ability, and clutch performances, Oweh captivated the fanbase and coaching staff alike with his leadership and grit.
His most memorable moment of the season came during Kentucky’s high-profile matchup against No. 6 Duke in the Champions Classic. Oweh sank four pressure-packed free throws in the final 10 seconds, sealing a 77–72 victory and securing Pope’s first major win as head coach. It was a signature performance that sparked national headlines and further solidified Oweh as a top player to watch.
Despite those highs, Oweh’s announcement to declare for the NBA Draft has caught many off guard. Though immensely talented, he is currently projected outside of the top 60 by most major scouting outlets, with ESPN’s Jonathan Givony placing him at No. 77 on the latest draft board. This raises questions about whether he’ll be drafted at all or will need to forge his path through Summer League and G-League development.
Coach Pope, visibly shaken during a press conference following the news, offered a heartfelt message of support.
“Otega has meant everything to this team — not just for what he did on the court, but for the energy, character, and leadership he brought every single day,” Pope said. “Yes, I’m sad. I wanted him back. But I also know that if he believes this is the right time for him, we stand behind him 100%.
Sources close to the program say Oweh spent the last few weeks quietly weighing his options, consulting with family, agents, and mentors before ultimately deciding to take the leap toward the professional ranks.
In a statement posted to social media, Oweh expressed gratitude to the Kentucky coaching staff, his teammates, and the fans.
“Kentucky gave me a platform to showcase my abilities and grow as both a player and a man. I’ll never forget what this team and this fanbase did for me,” Oweh wrote. “After much thought and prayer, I’ve decided to enter the 2025 NBA Draft and pursue my lifelong dream.
While Oweh’s departure leaves a major void in the Wildcats’ backcourt, Mark Pope remains confident in the talent returning and the top-rated transfer class he has assembled for the upcoming season. Players like Jaland Lowe and Kerr Kriisa are expected to take on expanded roles as the program looks to build on the momentum of Pope’s first year at the helm.
Still, the loss of Oweh stings — both for what he brought to the court and for what could have been with another year in Lexington.
“He’s got the heart of a warrior,” Pope said. “I just hope NBA teams see what we saw every day.
As Oweh prepares for the draft process, including pre-draft workouts and interviews, his fans in the Bluegrass will no doubt be cheering him on — hoping the next chapter of his basketball journey is as exciting as his time in Kentucky.
